Bill Boyd arrived in Hollywood in 1918, and was soon active as a leading man in the Silent movie industry. Recognized as a talented actor, he even worked with the great Cecile B De Mille! But, his early graying hair and a shortage of roles in the early 1930's forced William Boyd into accepting whatever came his way.
He was confused with another actor of the same name in a scandalous affair. The 'other' William Boyd was a drunkard, womanizer, and partier. This unfortunate coincidence almost ruined the real William Boyd's hard work.
Fortunate for us, Harry 'Pop' Sherman, and Paramount Pictures were pursuing the Hopalong Cassidy novels written by Clarence E Mulford. When all was said and done, William Boyd debuted in "Hop-A-Long Cassidy" in 1935. Johnny Nelson was his side kick portrayed by James Ellison. Gabby Hayes got in on the action as 'Windy' in the "Bar 20 Rides Again" and rode the range with Hoppy until 1939. Jimmy Ellison was replaced by Russell Hayden in 1937 beginning with the "Hills of Wyoming". Britt Wood, Andy Clyde, Brad King, George Reeves, jimmy Rogers, and Rand Brooks were Hoppy's compatriots for the rest of the series which went on until 1948.
William Boyd, through much sacrifice, was able to purchase the right to Hopalong Cassidy in 1946. He established his own production company to continue Hoppy's adventures.
Television brought new life to Hopalong Cassidy. The movies were edited down to 54 minutes and repeated on KTLA in Los Angeles in 1950-52. New episodes were produced and aired from 1952 to 1954. Hoppy was more popular than ever.
His face appeared everywhere. Comic books, colouring books, radio series, the theme park, lunch kits, clothing, and so much more said one thing, HOPALONG CASSIDY!
Just as portraying the Lone Ranger on television changed Clayton Moore, acting as Hopalong Cassidy changed William Boyd. He became the man millions admired and never disappointed. He passed away in 1972 and behind him left a legacy that has seldom been equaled.
Recently in Cambridge, Ohio the Annual Hopalong Cassidy Festival was held. My good friend Don McGregor (Zorro) attended and gave this report. At this event, the Hoppy Against Lone Pine print premiered. It follows. The picture does not do it justice. You can purchase the print from Ground Zero Productions or online at hoppy.com.
Take it away Don. The Hoppy Riding Topper Against Lone Pine lithograph premiered at the 2002 Hopalong Cassidy Festival organized by Laura Bates on May 3rd and
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